Iowa expected to tap South Dakota State transfer QB Mark Gronowski for Week 1

The continued expectation is that Iowa will start South Dakota State transfer quarterback Mark Gronowski in Week 1 against Albany, sources tell On3. Gronowski had offseason shoulder surgery that sidelined him for spring practice, but he returned to throwing this summer and has worked closely with offensive coordinator Tim Lester.

If there was one missing piece in Lester’s offense in 2024, it was a proven starting quarterback. Cade McNamara dealt with injuries and was inconsistent. Over the last four seasons, Iowa quarterbacks have combined for 38 touchdown passes and 37 interceptions.

Gronowski is expected to fill that need. He went 49–6 as a starter at South Dakota State and led the Jackrabbits to two national titles. The Walter Payton Award winner for the top FCS offensive player in 2023, he threw for 10,330 yards and 93 touchdowns.

Iowa was able to land Gronowski, as he ultimately picked a year with Iowa in the Big Ten over entering the NFL draft. He was heavily considering going pro and forgoing his final year of eligibility and earned an East-West Shrine Bowl invite.

Lester previously told On3 that he believes that Gronowski can make a serious jump this season at Iowa. The offensive coordinator is most comfortable running the Shanahan offense and thinks it will ease Gronowski’s transition to the NFL.

“You don’t necessarily get to pick the exact guy you want in the transfer portal,” Lester told On3 this summer. “You take the guys who are on there. When you’re recruiting the country, there are 10,000 to choose from. In the portal, there are like seven guys who have experience and play at this level. We got one of the seven.”

Iowa also added Auburn transfer Hank Brown and Wake Forest transfer Jeremy Hecklinski to the quarterback room this offseason. But Mark Gronowski’s game experience and ability to run Lester’s offense have flashed in training camp.

After hosting Albany on Aug. 30, the Hawkeyes visit Iowa State on Sept. 6.